Learning how to hang curtains for a bay window might be easier than you think. With the right measurements, the curtain of your choice, and a few handy tips, you can give your bay window a stylish makeover in no time.
This guide covers everything from selecting the right rods and curtain length to DIY tips from my colleague Janine and her family’s unique bay window setup. Hanging curtains for a bay window can be a quick and rewarding DIY project, so keep reading to get started.
Measure Your Window
Proper measurements are key. Bay windows typically have three sections: a large middle window and two smaller side windows. Here’s what you need to do:
- Measure the width of each section of your bay window and ensure the curtains you select are wide enough to cover each part without leaving gaps. You may need rods that can span these multiple parts.
- For the height, choose curtains that are at least 84 to 96 inches long to cover the full height of the window and create a graceful drape.
Got a Unique Bay Window?
If your bay window has non-traditional features, getting the right measurements is key. My colleague Janine shared how her family customized rods for their unique bay window, which has casement windows in the middle.
This small detail can make a big difference when measuring and choosing the right curtains for your space.
Choose the Right Rod or Hardware
The hardware you select will depend on the look you’re going for and the structure of your bay window. Below are the most common options:
| Curtain Rod/Track | Description |
| Tension curtain rods | • Easy, no-drill option that fits inside the window frame • Best for bay windows with 3 sections • Affordable and adjustable to match the frame width |
| Bay window curtain rods | • Single curved rods for a clean, continuous look • Ideal for bay windows with 3 sections • Simplifies curtain hanging, not suitable for more than 3 sections |
| Straight curtain rods | • Individual rods placed over each window frame for flexibility • Works best for bay windows with more than 3 sections • Adjustable for each section’s width |
| Metal curtain tracks | • Sleek, flexible tracks that bend around bay windows • Perfect for a modern look and heading-tape curtain • Suitable for various bay window configurations |
Here are some tips:
- For bay windows, curtain rods need to be sturdy enough to support the weight of the curtains while fitting the window’s unique angles.
- Investing in a thicker rod (around 1 inch in diameter) can give your bay window a more polished and professional look.
- If your bay window has sharp angles, consider buying corner connectors or flexible curtain rods. Alternatively, you can use multiple shorter rods that overlap in the corners, which can be just as effective.
Janine’s Tip: If your bay window is an unusual size or shape, look into custom curtain rods or tracks to ensure a perfect fit.
Janine’s dad got creative with their bay windows by making custom curtain rods out of cut pipes glued together. It’s not the most traditional look, but it works and is a budget-friendly fix. If you’re feeling creative, don’t be afraid to try something outside the box!
Decide Between Single or Double Brackets
Choose single brackets if…
…you prefer one layer of curtains. These are simple and work well with both straight and bay window curtain rods.
Choose double brackets if…
…you want to add a thicker layer of curtains for privacy or warmth. Double brackets allow you to hang two sets of curtains: one heavier set in the front and a lighter set in the back. This is especially useful in bay windows that receive direct sunlight, helping to control the light while maintaining a cozy feel.
Janine’s Tip: Double brackets are a great way to add a mix of textures, such as a sheer curtain layered with heavier drapes.
Pick Your Curtains
For a standard look, 84-inch curtains typically work best. If you have taller ceilings, opt for 96-inch curtains for a more dramatic effect.
You can also go for grommeted curtains to hide the curtain brackets behind the fabric, giving a cleaner, more polished look.
Janine’s Tip: Bay windows may require some extra creativity in curtain selection. You can buy a curtain set designed specifically for bay windows. For larger windows, individual curtain panels are a great option.
Install the Curtain Brackets
Brackets are essential for keeping the curtain rod securely in place. For bay windows, you’ll likely need more brackets than for standard windows, especially if using multiple rods. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Measure and Mark
Measure 4 to 6 inches above the window frames and mark the spots with a pencil. This makes the room look taller and more elegant. Do this for both sides of each window frame, whether you’re using straight rods or a single bay window rod.
Janine’s Tip: For a more dramatic effect, you can place the brackets 8 to 10 inches above the window to make the ceilings feel higher. Placing the brackets higher helps create the illusion of taller windows, which can be ideal for smaller rooms.
If using tension rods, skip all the steps below — they mount inside the frame without brackets.
- Mark Screw Holes
Hold each bracket against the wall and mark where the screws will go. Place two brackets above each window frame and ensure all brackets are level.
For a bay window with multiple sides, you may need to use more than two brackets to ensure stability.
- Drill Pilot Holes
Drill holes a bit smaller than your screws to ensure they fit into the wall. For heavy rods, use wall anchors to secure them properly.
Janine’s Tip: If you’re unsure where to drill, use a stud finder to ensure the brackets are attached to the most secure part of the wall.
- Secure Brackets
Once holes are drilled, screw the brackets into place. Tighten them to ensure they can support the weight of the curtains.
For longer or heavier rods, you can also use additional brackets in the middle to prevent sagging.
Hang Your Curtains
Now comes the fun part — hanging the curtains. Here’s how to do it:
- If you have multiple panels, separate them into pairs. You typically need 2 panels per window for a fuller look.
- Slide panels onto the rod. Make sure the bent corners of the rod align with the corners of your window.
- For straight curtain rods: Add two panels to each rod.
- For a bay window rod: Slide two panels per window frame and make sure the rod’s bent corners stay visible. Ensure the curtain rings glide smoothly around the curve to avoid any bunching or uneven hanging.
- Using double brackets? Add a second set of panels to additional rods.
- Set the curtain rod in the installed brackets. Adjust rod length as needed by extending or shortening the ends
- For straight rods: Place one rod over each frame, or two if using double brackets.
- For bay window rod: Align the straight sections with the windows and fit the bent corners into the bay window’s angles.
- For tension rods: You can just secure the rods directly inside the window frame.
- If you’re using overlapping rods (for corner connections), carefully hide the connection points behind the folds of the curtains to avoid any visible brackets or overlaps.
- Make sure your curtains fall gracefully to the floor or just above it, depending on your style and the look you’re going for.
Janine’s Tip: You need an extra hand. Hanging curtains can be a two-person job, or even three, especially when lifting a heavier rod. One or two people can hold the rod while the third slides the curtains into place, making the process much smoother.
If you’re looking for a quick, DIY solution to hanging curtains on your bay window, check out the video below. It shows you how to install curtains easily and affordably, saving you time and money.
Check the Final Look
Once the curtains are up, step back and evaluate the overall look. Ensure the curtains are evenly spaced, and adjust the folds as necessary for symmetry. If you’re using multiple rods, make sure everything aligns neatly at the edges.
Bonus Tip: You can also consider adding curtain tiebacks or a valance above the window. These accessories can complement your curtains and provide more visual appeal.
Bay-cause Your Window Deserves the Best
Hanging curtains on a bay window might seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can completely transform your space. By carefully measuring your windows, choosing the right hardware and curtains, and installing the brackets properly, you’ll be well on your way to making the most of your bay window’s unique features.
Remember, with just a bit of creativity and the right touches, your bay window can go from being a simple element of your home to a stunning focal point. But if you need some guidance along the way, there are local home improvement pros to help you get the perfect look for your bay window. After all, your window deserves the best.
Home Gnome delivers the best home service experience at the click of a button. Book reliable, skilled handymen and handywomen in seconds and leave the rest to us.
More articles for your DIY projects:
- How to Hang Curtains From the Ceiling
- How to Hang Curtains for an Arched Window
- How to Hang Curtains on the Wall Without Drilling
- How to Install a Curtain Rod on Your Wall
Main Image Credit: KAMOSTOCK / Adobe Stock generated with AI
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